Rolex 116680 Overview

The Rolex 116680, also known as the Sea-Dweller Deepsea, is a professional diving watch renowned for its exceptional depth rating and robust construction. This timepiece embodies Rolex’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking, offering a testament to its commitment to precision and performance.

Key Features and Specifications

The Rolex 116680 is distinguished by its impressive depth rating of 3,900 meters (12,800 feet), achieved through a unique case design and a helium escape valve. Its 44mm Oyster case, crafted from 904L stainless steel, boasts a distinctive “D-Blue” dial that gradually transitions from deep blue to black. Other key features include:

  • Oyster Perpetual Movement: The 116680 is powered by the self-winding mechanical caliber 3135, known for its accuracy and reliability.
  • Triplock Winding Crown: The triple-locking system ensures water resistance and prevents accidental crown detachment.
  • Cerachrom Bezel: The unidirectional rotatable bezel is made of scratch-resistant ceramic and features a graduated scale for precise timekeeping.
  • Maxi Dial: The large, luminous hour markers and hands enhance readability in low-light conditions.
  • Oyster Bracelet: The robust Oyster bracelet with an Easylink extension system provides a comfortable and secure fit.

History and Evolution

The Rolex 116680 was introduced in 2008 as a successor to the Sea-Dweller 16600. The most notable change was the introduction of the “D-Blue” dial, which created a striking visual contrast and highlighted the watch’s exceptional depth capabilities. The 116680 also featured a larger case size, a more robust case construction, and a redesigned helium escape valve.

Target Audience and Place in the Rolex Collection

The Rolex 116680 is primarily targeted at professional divers, underwater explorers, and individuals who appreciate the watch’s exceptional depth rating and robust construction. It represents the pinnacle of Rolex’s diving watch technology and sits at the top of the Sea-Dweller line, offering an unparalleled level of performance and functionality.

Design and Aesthetics

The Rolex 116680, also known as the Yacht-Master II, is a sophisticated and visually striking timepiece. Its design incorporates a blend of functionality and elegance, making it a coveted watch among collectors and enthusiasts.

Case Size, Shape, and Material

The 116680 boasts a substantial 44mm case, a departure from the more traditional 40mm size of other Yacht-Master models. This larger size contributes to its commanding presence on the wrist and provides ample space for the watch’s complex functions. The case is crafted from 904L stainless steel, a highly corrosion-resistant alloy renowned for its durability and lustrous finish. The case shape is round, with a distinctive fluted bezel that adds a touch of luxury and grip.

Bezel Design

The bezel of the 116680 is one of its most striking features. It is made from platinum, a precious metal that enhances the watch’s overall elegance and value. The bezel features a unidirectional rotating function, allowing the wearer to track elapsed time for sailing or other activities. The platinum bezel is also engraved with a black Cerachrom insert, a scratch-resistant ceramic material that ensures the markings remain crisp and legible over time. The black Cerachrom insert provides a striking contrast against the platinum bezel, adding to the watch’s visual appeal.

Dial Design

The 116680 features a dial that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The dial is available in a variety of colors, including black, blue, and white, offering a range of options to suit different preferences. The dial is adorned with luminous hour markers, which are applied to the surface and resemble Roman numerals. The hands are also luminescent, ensuring excellent readability in low-light conditions. The date window is positioned at 3 o’clock, seamlessly integrated into the dial design.

Bracelet Style and Material

The 116680 is equipped with a robust Oyster bracelet, a signature element of Rolex watches. The bracelet is crafted from 904L stainless steel, matching the case material. It features a polished center link and satin-finished outer links, creating a sophisticated and eye-catching contrast. The Oyster bracelet is renowned for its comfort and durability, thanks to its solid construction and the patented Rolex Oysterlock safety clasp. The clasp incorporates a 5mm Easylink comfort extension system, allowing the wearer to adjust the bracelet length for a perfect fit.

Technical Specifications

The Rolex 116680 Yacht-Master II is not just a stylish timepiece; it boasts a robust and reliable technical foundation that makes it a capable tool watch. Let’s delve into the technical specifications that make this watch stand out.

Movement

The heart of the Rolex 116680 is the Caliber 4161, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement. This movement is entirely developed and manufactured in-house by Rolex, reflecting the brand’s commitment to precision and quality. The Caliber 4161 features a column wheel chronograph mechanism, known for its smooth and precise operation. It also incorporates a patented variable-geometry oscillator, which contributes to the watch’s exceptional accuracy and reliability.

Power Reserve

The Rolex 116680 boasts a power reserve of approximately 72 hours, ensuring that the watch keeps running even if it’s not worn for a couple of days. This is a significant advantage for those who wear their watches intermittently or who travel frequently.

Water Resistance

The Rolex 116680 is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for recreational diving and other water-based activities. This level of water resistance is achieved through a combination of factors, including a screw-down crown, a sapphire crystal case back, and a robust case construction.

Accuracy

The Rolex 116680 is known for its exceptional accuracy, thanks to the use of a highly precise movement and a patented variable-geometry oscillator. The watch is typically certified by COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres), ensuring that it meets the highest standards of accuracy.

Reliability

Rolex watches are renowned for their durability and reliability, and the 116680 is no exception. The watch is built to withstand the rigors of daily wear and tear, making it a reliable companion for years to come. This reliability is attributed to the use of high-quality materials, meticulous manufacturing processes, and rigorous testing.

Technical Specifications Summary

  • Movement: Caliber 4161, self-winding mechanical chronograph movement with column wheel mechanism and patented variable-geometry oscillator
  • Power Reserve: Approximately 72 hours
  • Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)
  • Accuracy: COSC certified
  • Materials: 18k Everose gold case and bezel, black ceramic bezel insert, sapphire crystal glass, Oysterflex bracelet

Comparison to Other Rolex Models

The Rolex 116680 Yacht-Master II stands out in the Rolex collection due to its unique combination of features, including its chronograph function, its patented variable-geometry oscillator, and its robust construction. Compared to other Rolex models, the 116680 offers a higher level of functionality and sophistication. For instance, the Rolex Submariner, another popular dive watch, does not have a chronograph function, and the Rolex Daytona, a renowned chronograph, does not have the same level of water resistance as the Yacht-Master II.

Functionality and Performance

The Rolex 116680, a robust and versatile timepiece, is engineered to deliver exceptional performance across a wide range of scenarios, from everyday wear to demanding sporting activities and underwater adventures. This section delves into the watch’s functionality and performance, exploring its capabilities in detail.

Performance in Various Scenarios

The Rolex 116680 is designed to handle the rigors of daily wear, sporting activities, and underwater use with ease. Its robust construction and advanced features ensure reliable performance in any environment.

  • Daily Wear: The 116680’s comfortable design and water resistance make it an ideal choice for everyday wear. Its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial from minor scratches and impacts, while its robust construction ensures durability and longevity. The watch’s precise timekeeping ensures accuracy throughout the day.
  • Sports Activities: The 116680’s robust construction and water resistance make it suitable for various sports activities, including swimming, diving, and water sports. Its Triplock crown and screw-down case back provide exceptional water resistance, while its Oyster bracelet ensures a secure and comfortable fit even during intense physical activity.
  • Underwater Use: The 116680 is a certified diving watch, capable of withstanding depths of up to 300 meters (1,000 feet). Its helium escape valve allows for safe decompression during deep dives, preventing damage to the watch. The watch’s clear and legible dial ensures easy reading underwater, while its robust construction guarantees reliability even in extreme conditions.

Durability and Resistance to Wear and Tear

The Rolex 116680 is built to withstand the test of time. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.

  • Case and Bezel: The 116680’s case and bezel are crafted from 904L stainless steel, a highly corrosion-resistant alloy known for its exceptional strength and durability. This material is also used in the aerospace and chemical industries, showcasing its resilience to harsh environments.
  • Crystal: The watch features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, renowned for its hardness and resistance to scratches and impacts. This crystal provides excellent protection for the dial, ensuring its clarity and readability even after years of use.
  • Movement: The 116680 is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, known for its reliability and accuracy. The movement is housed in a robust case, protected from shocks and impacts by a shock-absorbing system.

Comfort and Ease of Use

The Rolex 116680 is designed for comfort and ease of use. Its ergonomic design and high-quality materials ensure a comfortable fit and effortless operation.

  • Oyster Bracelet: The watch is fitted with a robust Oyster bracelet, known for its secure and comfortable fit. The bracelet features a Glidelock clasp, allowing for easy adjustment without the need for tools. The bracelet’s smooth and contoured design ensures a comfortable feel on the wrist, even during extended wear.
  • Triplock Crown: The 116680’s Triplock crown provides a secure and reliable seal against water and dust. The crown is triple-sealed, ensuring exceptional water resistance. Its smooth and easy-to-grip design makes it effortless to wind and set the watch.
  • Clear and Legible Dial: The 116680 features a clear and legible dial, ensuring easy reading in any environment. The dial’s bold numerals and hands, along with its luminescent properties, enhance visibility in low-light conditions.

Market Value and Availability: Rolex 116680

The Rolex 116680, with its distinctive design and robust features, commands a substantial market value and enjoys considerable demand among watch enthusiasts. Its price range and availability are influenced by a combination of factors, including its production status, the overall luxury watch market dynamics, and the desirability of the specific model.

Current Market Value

The Rolex 116680 is a highly sought-after timepiece, and its market value reflects this demand. The price range for a pre-owned Rolex 116680 can vary significantly depending on its condition, age, and the seller’s asking price. However, in general, a pre-owned 116680 can fetch prices ranging from approximately $15,000 to $25,000 or more.

Factors influencing the market value of the Rolex 116680 include:

  • Condition: The condition of the watch is a primary factor determining its value. A watch in pristine condition with original box and papers will command a higher price than one with visible signs of wear and tear.
  • Age: Older models, especially those produced in limited editions, tend to appreciate in value over time, making them more valuable than newer models.
  • Rarity: Certain variations or limited editions of the Rolex 116680 are rarer than others, and this rarity can significantly increase their market value.
  • Demand: The demand for the Rolex 116680 in the market can fluctuate, impacting its price. Higher demand can lead to higher prices, while lower demand can result in lower prices.
  • Market trends: The overall luxury watch market trends can also influence the value of the Rolex 116680. Strong market conditions can lead to higher prices, while weak market conditions can lead to lower prices.

Availability

The Rolex 116680 is no longer in production, having been discontinued by Rolex. This means that new models are not available directly from authorized Rolex dealers. However, pre-owned models can be found through authorized dealers, independent watch retailers, and online marketplaces.

Finding a pre-owned Rolex 116680 can be challenging due to its high demand and limited supply. Depending on the specific model and condition, you might have to wait for some time to find the right watch.

Comparison with Similar Models

The Rolex 116680 sits comfortably among other luxury sports watches in the market, including models from brands like Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, and Richard Mille.

When compared to similar models, the Rolex 116680 offers a compelling blend of design, performance, and brand recognition. Its price range is generally comparable to other luxury sports watches in its category, making it a desirable option for collectors and watch enthusiasts.

Ownership and Care

Owning a Rolex 116680 is a significant investment, and proper care is essential to preserve its value and ensure its longevity. This section provides practical tips for maintaining your watch, including regular maintenance schedules, cleaning procedures, and storage recommendations. It also highlights the importance of authorized Rolex service centers for repairs and maintenance, and discusses potential risks and challenges associated with owning a luxury timepiece.

Maintenance Schedule, Rolex 116680

Regular maintenance is crucial for preserving the accuracy, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of your Rolex 116680. Rolex recommends servicing your watch every 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and environmental factors. This involves a comprehensive inspection, cleaning, and lubrication of all components, ensuring optimal performance and extending the watch’s lifespan.

  • Inspection: A thorough inspection of the watch’s movement, case, and bracelet is essential to identify any potential issues. This includes checking for signs of wear and tear, loose components, and any damage to the seals.
  • Cleaning: The watch should be cleaned regularly to remove dust, dirt, and other debris that can accumulate over time. This can be done using a soft, damp cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the watch’s finish.
  • Lubrication: The watch’s movement contains numerous moving parts that require lubrication to operate smoothly. During servicing, the watchmaker will apply a special lubricant to these parts, ensuring optimal performance and preventing wear and tear.
  • Water Resistance: The Rolex 116680 is a water-resistant watch, but its seals can deteriorate over time. Regular servicing ensures the watch’s water resistance is maintained, protecting it from water damage.

Cleaning Procedures

  • Case and Bracelet: Clean the case and bracelet with a soft, damp cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the watch’s finish. For stubborn dirt or grime, use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Crystal: The crystal can be cleaned with a microfiber cloth and a watch cleaning solution. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or paper towels, as they can scratch the crystal.
  • Movement: The movement should only be cleaned by a qualified watchmaker. Avoid attempting to clean the movement yourself, as this can damage the delicate components.

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage is essential for preserving the condition of your Rolex 116680.

  • Watch Box: Store your watch in a watch box or case designed specifically for watches. This will help protect it from dust, moisture, and scratches.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Avoid storing your watch in extreme temperatures or humidity. Ideally, store it in a cool, dry place with a stable temperature.
  • Avoid Magnetic Fields: Keep your watch away from strong magnetic fields, such as those found in magnets, speakers, and some electronic devices. Magnetic fields can interfere with the watch’s movement and cause inaccurate timekeeping.

Authorized Rolex Service Centers

For repairs and maintenance, it is crucial to use only authorized Rolex service centers. These centers are staffed by highly trained watchmakers who have the expertise and specialized tools to work on Rolex watches.

“Using an unauthorized service center could void your watch’s warranty and potentially damage the watch.”

Authorized service centers use only genuine Rolex parts, ensuring that your watch receives the highest quality repair and maintenance. They also have access to the latest technical information and training, ensuring that your watch is serviced according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Potential Risks and Challenges

While owning a Rolex 116680 offers prestige and exceptional craftsmanship, it also comes with certain risks and challenges:

  • Theft: Luxury watches are highly sought after by thieves, making them vulnerable to theft. It’s important to take precautions to protect your watch, such as keeping it out of sight when not wearing it and using a watch winder when not in use.
  • Damage: As with any mechanical device, a Rolex 116680 can be damaged through mishandling, accidental drops, or exposure to extreme conditions. It’s important to handle your watch with care and avoid subjecting it to harsh environments.
  • Wear and Tear: Over time, even with proper care, a watch will show signs of wear and tear. This is especially true for luxury watches that are frequently worn. The wear and tear can affect the watch’s value, especially if it’s not properly maintained.
  • Market Fluctuations: The value of luxury watches can fluctuate based on market conditions, economic factors, and changes in demand. While Rolex watches generally hold their value well, their price can fluctuate, and it’s important to be aware of these market trends.

Comparisons and Alternatives

The Rolex 116680, with its unique blend of style and functionality, stands out among luxury sports watches. However, it’s essential to compare it with other prominent Rolex models and explore potential alternatives from other brands to make an informed decision. This section will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of various options, providing a comprehensive overview of the market landscape.

Comparisons with Other Rolex Models

Comparing the Rolex 116680 to other Rolex models highlights its distinct features and target audience.

  • Rolex Submariner Date (116610LN): The Submariner Date is a classic dive watch with a similar aesthetic to the 116680. However, it features a black ceramic bezel and a black dial, giving it a more traditional and understated look. The 116680’s white gold bezel and blue dial offer a more contemporary and luxurious feel. Both watches share the same 3135 movement and water resistance rating.
  • Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea (116660): The Sea-Dweller Deepsea is a professional dive watch designed for extreme depths. It boasts a larger case size, a thicker bezel, and a helium escape valve, making it significantly more robust than the 116680. While the 116680 is suitable for recreational diving, the Deepsea is ideal for professional divers.
  • Rolex Yacht-Master (116655): The Yacht-Master is a luxury sports watch with a focus on yachting and sailing. It features a distinctive rotating bezel with a polished ceramic insert and a variety of materials, including platinum, gold, and steel. While the 116680 offers a similar aesthetic with its white gold bezel, the Yacht-Master boasts a more robust and functional design for marine activities.

Alternatives from Other Luxury Watch Brands

The Rolex 116680’s unique blend of design and functionality makes it a desirable watch, but other luxury watch brands offer compelling alternatives.

  • Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore: The Royal Oak Offshore is a renowned sports watch known for its bold design and robust construction. It features a distinctive octagonal bezel, a variety of materials, and a powerful chronograph function. While the Royal Oak Offshore is more expensive than the 116680, it offers a more sporty and aggressive aesthetic.
  • Patek Philippe Nautilus: The Nautilus is a luxury sports watch with a distinctive round case and an integrated bracelet. It features a variety of materials, including stainless steel, gold, and platinum. The Nautilus is known for its elegance and understated luxury, offering a more sophisticated alternative to the 116680.
  • Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control: The Master Control is a classic dress watch with a focus on precision and reliability. It features a variety of complications, including chronographs and moon phases, and is known for its timeless design. While the Master Control is more understated than the 116680, it offers a more elegant and versatile option for formal occasions.

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